Sakurai, MihokoSpiro, EmmaGonzalez Jose Jolio2016-12-292016-12-292017-01-04978-0-9981331-0-2http://hdl.handle.net/10125/41456Existing literature argues that taking a holistic approach to disaster management is important for organizations in achieving resilience. However, theoretical underpinnings are lacking to achieve a holistic understanding. This paper applies the notion of an ecosystem as a holistic lens to understand complex disaster management. \ \ We report two case studies from Japan and Nepal to illustrate how an ecosystem works during a disaster. The Japan case is a government initiative, whereas the Nepal case is a non-governmental initiative. The theoretical framework of information ecology is used in analyzing the cases. \ \ Based on the findings, we formulate three propositions that show important elements of ecosystems to approach resilience. The study suggests that coevolution is a key to respond to constantly changing situations during a disaster. To accomplish ecosystem coevolution, creating a collaboration system with governments and local communities and embedding local knowledge into the system are essential. Furthermore, digital tools can play a critical role in the coevolution process. \10 pagesengAttribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 InternationalEcosystemDisaster managementInformation ecologyJapanNepalConference Paper10.24251/HICSS.2017.300